Cross stages one of the best comebacks ever seen on World Matchplay stage with victory over Gurney

Rob Cross is through to the final of the World Matchplay after seeing off Daryl Gurney in one of the greatest comebacks ever seen in Blackpool.

Cross was 15-9 down against Gurney; he staged a miraculous comeback to win 17-15 to reach the final for the first time.

To start the game, Cross had the early advantage; but only just going into the first interval 3-2 up with both him and Gurney averaging 92.

Gurney though took the lead when they returned from the interval after restoring parity at 4-4 with a brilliant 114 checkout. Cross missed darts at doubles and as a result Gurney pounced on tops to go 5-4 up.

At the break this lead was consolidated with Gurney 6-4 up claiming five legs from six and asking the question of Cross even at this early stage. He didn't answer them and Gurney punished missed darts to break again at 7-4 up.

In addition, he continued to impose his grip on the tie at 8-4; he followed that up with a 124 checkout at 10-4. Seven on the spin was achieved at 10-4; with seven 180's and a 94 average for Gurney who performed excellently in pouncing on an out of sorts Cross.

He finally clawed a leg back ending that run of legs; but still went into the interval 10-5 behind. Cross added two more legs; but it still looked bleak with Gurney charging towards the winning line at the next interval at 13-7 up; despite Cross claiming seemingly a consolation break of throw.

This was as Gurney returned; he claimed it back to go 14-7 up. Cross began to play better on his throw; he broke Gurney's throw and held his throw after having a nine-dart attempt.

Gurney though squandered four darts at doubles to go within one; as a result Cross helped himself to another break at 15-11 behind. Cross sent the match into real drama as he broke throw to go 15-13 behind; from there he made it five straight legs for the World Number Two to go to within one 15-14.

He broke again to continue his sensational comeback; with a 66 finish to level at 15-15. A seventh straight leg was won by Cross at 16-15 to go one away and from there he concluded it.

Click here for more information about the World Matchplay, including the prize money breakdown, schedule and format.

Semi-Finals
Rob Cross (96.64) 17-15 (92.46) Daryl Gurney
21:00 Glen Durrant v Michael Smith

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